Kairanga transmission mast closure
On 12 May 2025 RNZ will be retiring its aging AM radio transmitter site at Kairanga.
The Kairanga site provides AM radio transmissions for the Manawatū-Whanganui region on the 1449 AM frequency.
Listeners to RNZ National on the 1449 AM frequency will need to retune to either 101.0 FM or 567 AM to continue to listen to RNZ National.
There are also several alternative online listening options which are detailed below.
If you are having any reception issues, please contact us:
Email transmission@rnz.co.nz
Phone 0800 435 772
You could also check out our reception tips for AM and FM
What areas are impacted by the change?
As the map below shows, currently 1449 AM serves parts of the Manawatū-Whanganui area. Most of this area is already served by the existing FM frequency - 101.0 FM that is continuing. However, the areas shaded in green - Hunterville, Pohangina, Manakau and Eketahuna will potentially be using the AM frequency and will need to make the switch. We also know that some people prefer using AM or only have the ability to access AM radio in their car and they too will need to switch frequencies.
Because of overlapping signals this area is already able to receive RNZ National on 567 AM through the Titahi Bay transmitter. The map below shows this coverage.
Will there be areas where AM coverage will be lost?
We do not believe so. Our modelling shows 100% coverage in this area from other broadcast AM/FM sites. However, if you are experiencing difficulties please contact us.
Email transmission@rnz.co.nz
Phone 0800 435 772
Why are there currently overlapping signals in the area?
The Kairanga mast was put up 75 years ago and predates the FM transmitter. At the time to increase AM frequency in suburban areas, infill sites like Kairanga were put up. Because FM is now servicing the more populated areas of the Manawatū-Whanganui the Kairanga mast is no longer needed.
Why stop transmitting from the Kairanga mast now?
A 75 years old, the Kairanga mast has reached the end of its useful life and requires either removal or remediation. It is not safe to allow the aging mast to stay up indefinitely.
Why isn’t RNZ replacing the Kairanga mast?
Replacing the mast would be an expensive exercise to allow a frequency to continue that is no longer needed. RNZ is publicly funded and we do not consider that this would be a good use of public money.
What will happen to the land where the Kairanga mast is situated?
This land is owned by RNZ and once the mast is removed RNZ will be looking to sell the land.
What are some of my other options for listening to RNZ?
Terrestrial/Satellite Freeview HD: RNZ National is Channel 50
Satellite TV: SKY Channel 421
Mobile phone: Download the free RNZ app for iOS or Android – rnz.co.nz/app
Internet: Listen live or download programmes for offline listening at www.rnz.co.nz
Or listen live on iHeartRadio www.iheart.com or ROVA RNZ National - stream now on rova | rova
